by Liane Membis

Dream of owning your own business or becoming an entrepreneur? Owning a business can be a great gig. It also requires a lot of hard work, so trying it out as a temporary summer job is ideal. 

Usually a first step toward starting a business is knowing how to sell. Selling is a skill that can be acquired by providing services through your own summer business. Even if being a business owner isn't your goal, it's a great way to be your own boss and make your own hours this summer!

The following five in-demand services are possible vocations for you this summer:

• Babysitting: If you enjoy working with children or dream of owning your own child-care center, consider being a baby sitter in your community. It's a great way to demonstrate your responsibility as well as improve your management skills.
  
• Landscaping: Like working outdoors? Consider mowing lawns or doing yard work as a way of earning extra cash. Neighbors might find your service useful. Also, consider gardening for your local neighborhood association. This type of service helps to showcase your work ethic, both physically and mentally.
  
• Cleaning: On a hot summer day, nothing is more fun then getting splashed with water. By providing car washing or pool cleaning services, you can stay cool all summer. It also shows you’re a neat person dedicated to helping others.
  
• Pet Sitting: If you like animals, consider pet-sitting or dog-walking. Caring for other’s pets shows you’re reliable and responsible. 
  
• Tutoring: Tutor students in your community in subjects you're good at. You’ll help students build confidence in their academics as they prepare for the new school year or complete summer coursework. You’ll also get an idea of what it’s like to teach!